Where to Enjoy The Best Pintxos in San Sebastian 

San Sebastian, a verdant jewel in Spain’s Basque Country is a city that promises the best of stunning scenery, rich culture, and, most notably, its extraordinary culinary scene. Among the city’s many delights are the pintxos (pronounced “pinchos”). These small, flavorful bites, often served on skewers or toothpicks, are quintessential to Basque cuisine. We’ve recently spent five days in the city and in this guide we highlight some of the best places in San Sebastian to indulge in these delectable treats.

What Are Pintxos?

Pintxos are a type of tapas traditionally enjoyed in northern Spain, particularly in the Basque Country. Unlike typical tapas, which can vary widely in form, pintxos are usually served on a small piece of bread with a toothpick or skewer piercing through the middle, holding everything together. This unique presentation gives pintxos their name, derived from the Spanish word “pinchar,” meaning “to pierce.”

The variety of pintxos is astounding, ranging from simple combinations of ingredients to more elaborate culinary creations. Common ingredients include seafood, meats, cheeses, vegetables, and an array of sauces and garnishes. The creativity and craftsmanship involved in making pintxos reflect the Basque passion for food, making every bite a truly delightful experience.

What Makes Pintxos Special?

Pintxos allow the Chefs to embrace the freedom of culinary creativity – each pintxos can be seen as miniature work of art. There is a strong emphasis on the use of quality, locally sourced ingredients and innovative combinations which make pintxos such an exciting must-try food. 

We really love the expression that says that the best way to experience a culture is through its food – thus enjoying pintxos is as much about the social experience as it is about the food. Pintxos bars, known as “pintxos bars,” are lively, welcoming places where locals and tourists alike gather to savor delicious bites, share stories, and enjoy the convivial atmosphere.

What’s also great about the pintxos is the diversity of flavors which ensures that there’s something for everyone. From traditional offerings like anchovies and olives to modern creations featuring foie gras or truffle oil, pintxos cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Pintxos are typically priced affordably, making them accessible to all. Whether you’re indulging in a casual snack or embarking on a pintxos bar crawl, these delightful bites offer excellent value for money.

The Best Places to Enjoy Pintxos in San Sebastian

San Sebastian is home to hundreds of pintxos bars, each known for its own unique charm and specialties. The narrow, cobblestone streets of the Old Town, or Parte Vieja, which is the historic heart of San Sebastian are lined with a fantastic selection of both old-school bars as well as modern ones. 

Just across the river from the Old Town, Gros is a trendy neighborhood known for its surf culture and vibrant nightlife. This area offers a more modern take on the traditional pintxos experience, with many bars featuring contemporary twists on classic dishes. Here are some must-visit places to savor the best pintxos the city has to offer. 

Bodega Donostiarra

Bodega Donostiarra is a beloved institution in San Sebastian, originally founded in 1924 by a family who managed a network of wine cellars throughout the city. In 1975, they established the bar in the Gros neighborhood, which quickly became popular for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious pintxos.

The bar offers a mix of traditional and modern pintxos, with highlights including the “Gilda,” a classic combination of anchovy, olive, and pickled pepper, and the “Txaka,” a crab salad pintxo that is always a hit. There is also a Bodega Donostiarra in the Old Town, located along Calle de San Jeronimo.

La Viña

While La Viña is best known for its legendary cheesecake, it also offers an excellent selection of pintxos. The bar’s savory offerings include the “Gilda,” a classic combination of anchovy, olive, and pickled pepper, and the “Pintxo de Bacalao,” a salted cod pintxo with a hint of garlic. The warm, rustic atmosphere and delicious pintxos make La Viña a must-visit destination in San Sebastian.

La Mejillonera

La Mejillonera, located on Calle del Puerto in San Sebastian’s Old Town, is known for its fun atmosphere and exceptional seafood pintxos. Specializing in mussels, the “Mejillones Tigre” in spicy tomato sauce are a must-try. Other favorites include the “Patatas Bravas,” crispy potatoes with spicy sauce and aioli, and the “Calamares,” fried calamari rings. Pair the meal with cider for an ultimate Basque taste.

The bar’s quick, friendly service and no-frills, standing-room-only setup create a lively, authentic Basque experience. For a true taste of San Sebastian’s culinary scene, La Mejillonera is a delightful and memorable destination. Every time the staff get a tip, they ring the bell – so make sure to tip them.

Casa Vergara 1948

Casa Vergara 1948, situated in the heart of San Sebastian’s Old Town just on the corner across from the Koruko Andre Mariaren Basilika, is a charming place known for its rich history and exceptional pintxos. This bar exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Casa Vergara 1948 offers a delightful array of pintxos that blend traditional Basque flavors with modern twists. Notable favorites include the “Solomillo al Foie,” a succulent beef sirloin topped with creamy foie gras, and the “Bacalao a la Vizcaína,” a beautifully prepared salt cod in a rich tomato and red pepper sauce as well as scallop ceviche type of pintxos

Gandarias

Gandarias, located on the bustling Calle 31 de Agosto in San Sebastian’s Old Town, is a quintessential pintxos bar that perfectly balances tradition and innovation. This popular establishment is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional pintxos.

Standout dishes include the “Pintxo de Solomillo”, a piece of perfectly grilled sirloin with a green pepper on top, the “Brocheta de Gambas,” a skewer of perfectly grilled shrimp, and the “Solomillo con Foie,” a mouthwatering combination of tender beef and rich foie gras. Another favorite is the “Bacalao a la Vizcaína,” a traditional salt cod dish served in a savory tomato and red pepper sauce.

Gandarias is also known for its impressive selection of wines, which perfectly complement the flavorful pintxos. 

​​Bar Sport

Bar Sport, located on Fermin Calbeton Kalea right in the heart of San Sebastian’s Old Town, is a renowned spot celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering pintxos. This iconic bar seamlessly blends the energy of a bustling sports bar with the culinary excellence that the city is known for.

The pintxos menu at Bar Sport is a delightful mix of traditional Basque flavors and inventive dishes, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate. Highlights include the “Gambas a la Plancha,” succulent grilled shrimp with a touch of garlic and parsley, and the “Pintxo de Solomillo,” a tender sirloin steak served with green peppers. The “Txipirones,” small, tender squid often prepared a la plancha, is another must-try as well as the “Txaka,” a crab salad pintxo, showcasing the bar’s dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Sirimiri Bar

Sirimiri Bar, on Calle Mayor in San Sebastian’s Old Town, offers a modern twist on traditional Basque pintxos in a chic, inviting setting. Known for its creative culinary approach, Sirimiri blends contemporary flavors with classic ingredients.

The menu at Sirimiri features standout dishes like the “Margueta” – Duck beast with pineapple ( Duck has been incorporated into Spanish Basque cuisine from the neighboring French Basque region) , “Foie a la Plancha,” seared foie gras with a touch of sea salt, and the “Pulpo a la Brasa,” grilled octopus with smoky, tender perfection. The “Carrillera de Ternera,” slow-cooked beef cheek, is another must-try, showcasing the bar’s dedication to high-quality, flavorful cuisine.

Arenales Bar

Arenales Bar, located on Alameda del Boulevard in the heart of San Sebastian, is a beloved spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and natural wine selection. Its small yet well-rounded menu is a perfect blend of traditional Basque flavors and innovative culinary twists. 

Whether you’re starting your evening or winding down after a day of exploring, Arenales Bar on Alameda del Boulevard promises a delightful and authentic taste of San Sebastian’s culinary scene.

Here are some top picks in Gros:

Bar Bergara

Bergara is a must-visit for anyone exploring the pintxos scene in Gros. This award-winning bar which has also been included in the Michelin Guide – is famous for its creative and beautifully presented pintxos. Notable dishes include the “Txalupa,” a puff pastry filled with seafood, and the “Antxoa,” a marinated anchovy with a touch of garlic and parsley. The attention to detail and inventive combinations at Bergara make it a standout destination for pintxos lovers.

Bar Zabaleta

Bar Zabaleta offers a cozy, laid-back environment where you can enjoy a variety of delicious pintxos. The menu features both traditional and modern options, with standout dishes including the “Bacalao a la Vizcaína,” a salt cod pintxo with a rich tomato and red pepper sauce, and the “Montadito de Jamón,” a mini sandwich with Iberian ham.

It is also famous for its Tortilla de Patatas, the Spanish omelette which is a staple dish on the menu.  The warm, friendly service and its laid-back outdoor area make it a great spot to relax and enjoy some of the best pintxos in Gros.

Bar Desy 

This small yet incredibly cozy bar is a beloved favorite among locals. Though it offers just a few outdoor tables, the true magic happens around the lively open kitchen bar area, which pulses with energy and adds to the unique charm of the place.

Bar Desy serves a selection of pintxos but the real hidden gem here is their Txuleton burger – trust me when I say it’s a real treat. Txuleton is the Basque word for ribeye. The finely chopped minced ribeye meat is slightly grilled – making it tender, super juicy and fatty. It is served inside a soft brioche which gives it a slightly sweet flavor – absolutely beautiful. We ended up coming here twice – that’s how much we liked it. 

Conclusion

San Sebastian’s pintxos bars offer a culinary experience like no other, blending tradition, innovation, and exceptional quality. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, exploring the best pintxos in San Sebastian is definitely something that you should add to your itinerary. So grab a glass of local wine or cider, savor the flavors, and immerse yourself in the magic of San Sebastian’s pintxos culture.